78 rpm records

Definition

78 rpm records are a type of phonograph record that played at a speed of 78 revolutions per minute, commonly used from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. These records were typically made of shellac and could hold about three to five minutes of sound on each side, significantly influencing the way music was distributed and consumed. The introduction of 78 rpm records marked a crucial transition in the music industry, shaping the emergence of swing and other jazz styles as artists sought to reach wider audiences through recorded media.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 78 rpm records were first introduced in the late 1890s and quickly became the standard format for recorded music until they were largely replaced by vinyl LPs in the late 1940s.
2. The shellac material used in these records made them heavy and fragile, often resulting in breakage if not handled properly.
3. Jazz musicians frequently recorded on 78 rpm records, allowing their music to reach a larger audience and contributing to the popularization of swing music during the 1930s.
4. Most 78 rpm records had a diameter of 10 inches, but there were also larger formats, such as 12-inch records, which could hold longer tracks.
5. The shift from 78 rpm records to vinyl LPs allowed for longer play times and improved sound quality, revolutionizing the music industry and how audiences engaged with recorded music.

Review Questions

• How did the introduction of 78 rpm records impact the distribution of jazz music during the emergence of swing?
  • The introduction of 78 rpm records revolutionized the distribution of jazz music by enabling artists to reach a wider audience than ever before. Jazz musicians could record their performances, allowing listeners to enjoy their music at home or at social gatherings. This accessibility contributed to the popularity of swing music in the 1930s, as it reached diverse audiences and facilitated new trends in dance and social culture.
• Discuss the role of shellac as a material in the production of 78 rpm records and how it affected their usability.
  • Shellac was a key material in the production of 78 rpm records, providing a medium for recording sound. However, its brittle nature made these records heavy and fragile, which posed challenges for usability. Many records would break easily if dropped or mishandled, requiring careful storage and handling practices among collectors and consumers. This fragility eventually led to the development of more durable materials like vinyl.
• Evaluate the transition from 78 rpm records to vinyl LPs and its significance for the jazz genre, particularly during the swing era.
  • The transition from 78 rpm records to vinyl LPs was significant for jazz musicians as it allowed for longer play times and better sound quality. While 78s typically held only a few minutes of music per side, LPs could accommodate multiple tracks or entire albums, leading to more comprehensive recordings that showcased artists' talents. This shift supported the growth of big band jazz during the swing era, as entire performances could be captured and shared with audiences, deepening engagement with the genre and influencing future musical developments.

Related terms

Phonograph: An early device for playing recorded sound, which became popular in the late 19th century and laid the groundwork for modern sound recording technologies.

Swing Era: A period in the 1930s and 1940s characterized by the rise of big band jazz and a danceable style that became hugely popular in American culture.

Shellac: A natural resin used to make early records, particularly 78s, known for its brittle nature and susceptibility to damage, requiring careful handling.